Researchers at the University of York used high-throughput robotic synthesis and triazole 'click' chemistry to generate 672 metal complexes and identified an iridium-based compound with antibacterial activity and low toxicity in human cells. The automated combinatorial platform accelerates exploration of three-dimensional metal scaffolds that interact with bacteria differently than traditional flat, carbon-based antibiotics. The work, published in Nature Communications, highlights a pathway to replenish the antibiotic pipeline using unconventional chemistries and automation. Pharmaceutical developers seeking new mechanisms to outpace resistance will watch for follow-on optimization, safety packages, and potential translational collaborations.